Some fishing groups say relationship with DFO is heading in positive direction

The relationship between Nova Scotia fishing groups and the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans seems to be heading in a positive direction, according to the heads of two industry organizations. One of the main sources of contention has been the perceived lack of enforcement in the baby eel fishery and illegal lobster fishing in the southwestern part of the province.

Colin Sproul, president of the Unified Fisheries Conservation Alliance, believes that there is a “course correction” happening within the federal department. He noted that there has been increased enforcement in the baby eel fishery on the South Shore of Nova Scotia, resulting in more arrests and seizures of vehicles and juvenile eels, also known as elvers. The high value of these eels, which can fetch up to $5,000 per kilogram, has made them a target for illegal fishers.

According to DFO’s website, fishery officers have conducted over a thousand riverside inspections, as well as inspections at holding facilities and airports during the 2025 season. Sproul sees this as a positive step towards protecting Nova Scotia’s resources.

Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson, who was appointed in mid-March and retained her position after the federal election, has also taken action against unauthorized traps in Malpeque Bay, P.E.I. These traps were set by the Lennox Island First Nation for their moderate livelihood fishery, which is protected under the Supreme Court of Canada’s Marshall decision. While the Mi’kmaq have the right to fish for a moderate livelihood, the government has yet to establish clear regulations for this type of fishing.

Sproul emphasized that while the Unified Fisheries Conservation Alliance supports treaty rights, they believe that the fisheries minister has sole regulatory authority. Minister Thompson recently visited Nova Scotia, meeting with stakeholders in the fishing industry and attending various events in Cape Breton.

Dan Fleck, executive director of the Brazil Rock 33/34 Lobster Association, also noted positive signs from the government regarding enforcement against illegal fishing practices. He expressed satisfaction with the government’s willingness to listen and address issues in the elver and lobster fishing industries.

Overall, there is optimism within the Nova Scotia fishing community that the federal government is taking steps in the right direction to protect the province’s valuable marine resources.